DOG owners can take pets to a free health check and advice session held tomorrow in memory of a late animal welfare activist.

Dogs Trust, in partnership with Durham County Council, will hold the annual community event in honour of Angela Taylor, who died of cancer in 2010.

Mrs Taylor campaigned for Dogs Trust and other animal charities and helped rescue and rehome almost 1,000 dogs in 20 years.

Each year a memorial day is held in her home town of Spennymoor to ensure her legacy lives on. It will be at Spennymoor Leisure Centre on Tuesday, March 13, from 11am to 3pm.

It will include free basic health checks, nail clipping, advice on diet and neutering and free on-the-spot microchipping.

Denise Kelly, campaigns manager for Dogs Trust in the North of England, said: “Angela was a very passionate dog lover and we want to ensure her legacy is carried on by providing the best possible support to dog owners and prospective dog owners alike, so that more dogs find and remain in happy homes.

“On the day we will be providing a drop in service so be sure to come along with your dog and say hello, but please do keep your dog on a lead.”

All breeds and ages of dogs are welcome but the charity will not chip active hunting hounds or litters of puppies. Any animal under six months old must be fully vaccinated and proof taken to the event.

Ian Hoult, Durham County Council’s neighbourhood protection manager, said: “This event is always a fitting tribute to the work done by Angela, who was a great exponent of responsible dog ownership here in County Durham.”

“We would encourage all local dog owners to come along and take advantage of the vast range of free information and services that will be available.”